Water Vole

Arvicola amphibius

About

Lives along rivers, streams and ditches, around ponds and lakes and in marshes, reedbeds and areas of wet moorland. Look out for the signs of Water Voles such as burrows in the riverbank, often with a nibbled 'lawn' of grass around the entrance. Water Voles like to sit and eat in the same place, so piles of nibbled grass and stems may be found by the water's edge, showing a distinctive 45° angled-cut at the ends. 'Latrines' of rounded, cigar-shaped droppings may also be spotted.

How to identify

Much bigger than other voles. Distinguished from the larger Brown Rat by its chestnut-brown fur, rounded nose, small, rounded ears that do not protrude from the fur and furry tail.

Where to find it

Widespread, found everywhere except for the Channel Island, the Isles of Scilly, Scottish islands, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.

When to find it

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

How can people help

The Water Vole is Britain's fastest declining wild mammal and has disappeared from many parts of the country where it was once common. It is threatened by habitat loss, but has suffered particularly from predation by the introduced American Mink. The Wildlife Trusts are working hard to save the Water Vole by improving riverbank habitats, controlling Mink and being involved in Water Vole reintroduction schemes. Volunteers are needed to help with everything from monitoring populations to riverbank restoration. So why not have a go at volunteering for your local Trust? You'll make new friends, learn new skills and help wildlife along the way.

Local information

The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust has undertaken a Water Vole Recovery Project to help protect these vulnerable animals. Find out what we are doing, become a volunteer surveyor or let us know about water voles you have seen.